Voice control features on smartphones have come a long way in recent years. While virtual assistants like Siri are useful, Apple has introduced a powerful way to create your own custom voice commands on iPhone called Vocal Shortcuts. This feature allows you to trigger actions and automations just by speaking a phrase, without even needing to wake your phone. Let’s explore how to set up and use Vocal Shortcuts to boost your productivity.
What Are Vocal Shortcuts?
Vocal Shortcuts allow you to create custom voice commands that can trigger actions on your iPhone. Unlike Siri, which is limited to built-in commands, Vocal Shortcuts let you define your own trigger phrases to run Shortcuts automations or Siri requests. This opens up nearly endless possibilities for voice control.
Some key benefits of Vocal Shortcuts include:
- Hands-free control of your iPhone
- Ability to create custom voice commands for any task
- Works even when your iPhone is locked
- Doesn’t require saying “Hey Siri” first
- Can trigger complex multi-step automations
Setting Up Vocal Shortcuts
To start using Vocal Shortcuts, you’ll need to enable the feature in your iPhone’s settings:
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Step 2: Tap “Accessibility”.
Step 3: Scroll down and tap “Vocal Shortcuts” under the “Speech” section.
Step 4: Toggle on “Vocal Shortcuts” to enable the feature.
Step 5: Tap “Set Up Vocal Shortcuts” if this is your first time using the feature.
Your iPhone will now download some necessary files to enable Vocal Shortcuts. This only needs to be done once.
Creating Your First Vocal Shortcut
Once Vocal Shortcuts are enabled, you can start creating custom voice commands:
Step 1: In the Vocal Shortcuts settings, tap “Add Action”.
Step 2: Choose whether you want to run a Siri request or an existing Shortcut.
Step 3: If using a Siri request, type in the command you want to run (e.g. “Set a timer for 10 minutes”).
Step 4: If using a Shortcut, scroll through your existing Shortcuts and select one to run.
Step 5: Enter a trigger phrase - this is what you’ll say to activate the command.
Step 6: Record yourself saying the trigger phrase three times so your iPhone can learn it.
Step 7: Tap “Done” to save your new Vocal Shortcut.
Tips for Effective Vocal Shortcuts
To get the most out of Vocal Shortcuts, keep these tips in mind:
- Use distinct trigger phrases that won’t be confused with normal speech
- Record your trigger phrase in different tones/volumes for better recognition
- Create shortcuts for tasks you do frequently to save time
- Combine multiple actions into a single Shortcut for complex automations
- Use Vocal Shortcuts to quickly access apps or features you use often
Advanced Uses for Vocal Shortcuts
Once you’re comfortable with basic Vocal Shortcuts, you can explore more advanced uses:
Integrating with Smart Home Devices
If you have HomeKit-compatible smart home devices, you can create Vocal Shortcuts to control them. For example, saying “Movie time” could dim your lights, lower your smart blinds, and turn on your TV.
Customizing Virtual Assistants
While Siri is the default assistant on iPhone, Vocal Shortcuts allow you to integrate other AI assistants. For example, you could set up a shortcut that opens the Google Assistant app when you say “OK Google”, giving you quick access to Google’s AI capabilities.
Creating Context-Aware Commands
By combining Vocal Shortcuts with the Shortcuts app’s ability to check device status and location, you can create context-aware voice commands. For instance, a “Start my commute” command could give you different information depending on whether you’re at home or at work.
Accessibility Applications
For users with mobility impairments, Vocal Shortcuts can significantly improve device accessibility by allowing voice control of nearly any function on the iPhone.
Troubleshooting Vocal Shortcuts
If you’re having trouble with your Vocal Shortcuts, try these steps:
- Ensure your iPhone’s microphone is not obstructed
- Re-record your trigger phrases, trying different volumes and tones
- Check that you have the latest iOS version installed
- If a shortcut isn’t running correctly, test it in the Shortcuts app first
Vocal Shortcuts represent a powerful way to customize your iPhone experience and boost productivity through voice control. By creating your own voice commands, you can streamline common tasks and interact with your device in a more natural, hands-free manner. As you become more familiar with the feature, you’ll likely discover creative ways to integrate voice control into your daily routine.